Cyndi Lauper on fun, fashion and freedom of expression: ‘We have braces on our brains’

As she auctions off her treasures, the synth-pop savant opens up about her eccentric style and why she doesn’t believe in cancel culture

Cyndi Lauper on fun, fashion and freedom of expression: ‘We have braces on our brains’

TL;DR

  • Cyndi Lauper is auctioning a collection of her fashion and personal items at Bonhams New York in an event titled 'A Suitcase of Memories'.
  • The collection spans her five-decade career, featuring outfits from music videos, performances, and album art, reflecting her eclectic and individual style.
  • Lauper, who honed her style working at Screaming Mimi's and grew up in a family involved in New York's Garment District, emphasizes the importance of individual creativity and inspiring others.
  • The auction highlights her work beyond music, including her advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth and her Tony Award win for 'Kinky Boots'.
  • Lauper expresses nostalgia for the "wildness" of the 1980s and a concern about modern society being "corporatized" with "braces on our brains."
  • She discusses her views on creativity, representation in music (citing Chappell Roan), and her stance against cancel culture, believing in the importance of dialogue and allowing people to evolve.
  • Lauper also touches upon her activism, including re-releasing her abortion rights song 'Sally's Pigeons' and her thoughts on the approaching midterms.
  • The exhibition aims to inspire both older and younger generations to embrace their individuality and creativity.